Hi -- We are adopting a kitten that is 2 months old. Mom is healthy, father unknown. We have two, healthy adult cats already. Since testing really is pointless until about 4 months of age (to avoide false positives), what do we do about bringing her in to a home with cats already? If our cats are up-to-date is there nothing to worry about? We're concerned about having a kitten that might be unhealthy, but not knowing for months until she's tested and meanwhile she's in the house with our existing cats.

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In my years with animal rescue, I must admit I never heard that a kitten shouldn't be tested for these diseases until it's 4 months old. We had our vets test our rescues as soon as we could and I am not aware of any "false" positives or negatives. Even cats who are healthy can be infected with these diseases and there is no vaccination against them that is 100% trustworthy. These diseases can be spread through contact with the saliva of the infected cat or kitten or by using the same litter box. If it were me, I would not put myself through 8 more weeks of worry. I would establish the new kitten with my vet as soon as I could and have her tested. You can also chat with them at that time about the best way for a peaceful introduction to your resident cats.